Home Secretary Jacqui Smith complimented the Community Security Trust on its work and productive cooperation with the Home Office when she visited the CST’s Hendon offices last week.

Ms Smith said she had been impressed by the trust’s security provision, training and recording of antisemitic incidents.

Gerald Ronson listens in as Jacqui Smith addresses CST supporters

“The CST clearly has the same objectives as we do on home security — to help people live and learn and worship in the way they need to”.

Such vigilance, allied to increased efforts by the Home Office, had helped to combat extremist behaviour. However, there was scope for improvement — for example, in the government reaching out to more sections of the Muslim community.

CST communications director Mark Gardner said it had been “extremely motivating for CST’s staff to meet the Home Secretary and to hear her support for our work. We were able to share with her our commitment to both the Jewish community and the democratic values upon which our society depends.”